Its a place where Christmas cheer rings out all year long and the mystical northern lights dance across the dark winter sky. The long dark nights in the north are perfect for adventures by . And its by far one of the most thrilling ways to discover the diverse winter landscapes that make up the arctic circle. Its a magical frosted wilderness that enchants everyone who visits! Since youll be spending a lot of time outdoors in the snow, a thick pair of wool socks are the best shield against wet and cold feet. The cozy cafe is very bright which is welcoming during the dark, winter months. We love hearing from you! You can book an individual tour (minimum 4 people) at a different hour for 25/pp. Another popular activity during winter in Finland is snowshoeing. The trip includes pickup/dropoff as well as dinner. All Rights Reserved. Forget about using the torch in your phone. Its the Christmassy destination we all dream about as little kids. Make sure to check the forecast, and remember your gloves and hats. The land of the indigenous Smi people, known as Smi homeland or Spmi, also crosses the northern part of the region. And, of course, if you're visiting Lapland for Christmas, it's your chance to get up close and personal with the big man himself. I have also listed a variety of places to eat to give you options (and I have enjoyed all of the places myself)! This tour will pick you up and drive through Sweden where it will depart from Axelsvik. Good times shopping with an American debit card. I think dog sledding in Rovaniemi is one of the best things to do in Lapland in winter! I went there three times for just that (portions were too large to order more). I had their reindeer burger which consisted of a reindeer patty, thyme, mushrooms, lingonberry mayo, pickled cucumbers, ruccola, and a red onion jam. A guided tour is included, and youll have the opportunity to stop off and walk on the ice or take a swim in a flotation survival kit. >> Click here for snowmobiling rates and availability. It wont move much over the horizon and it will still be quite dark and it could look more like a colorful sunrise/sunset than anything else. So if the auroras are to make an appearance, you can watch the spectacle from the comfort of your bed. A typical ice fishing experience involves a short hike to a nearby frozen lake, cutting a hole in the ice, and waiting for your catch to take the bait. While it might appear to be a fairy tale destination, Lapland is 100% a real place. ), 22 Cant-Miss Things to do in Copenhagen (for First-Timers! 7 Reasons to Visit Lapland in Winter : Nordic Visitor After our travels throughout Asia, animal tourism is a sensitive subject to us. No Lapland winter activities were out of bounds, and even Santa allowed us to visit him. Jacket: A good quality, warm winter jacket is a must. This guide details all of the best Lapland Winter activities, and includes where to eat, how to plan, and all of our top tips for visiting. Hot drinks are included! Santa Clause takes visitors all year round in this part of the world. Or, for adventure enthusiasts, you can drive race cars on the ice of frozen lakes. This guide has you covered! Please note that a drivers license is required for this activity and kids younger than 14 will go on a sled with guides instead of on the back of a snowmobile. **Our trip to Lapland was sponsored by Kakslauttanen Resort. Experienced riders have the option to ride on horseback. The customer service was exceptional, the food was incredible, and everything about it just left me craving another trip. Things to do in Lapland in December - Wanderlog Wrapped up in warm clothes and a blanket, we cruised at a gentle pace beneath the light of a mystical full moon. 9 Reasons Why You Should Visit Lapland in Autumn (Not Winter!) Because of its natural scenery, its especially popular for cross country skiing. Seeing a big game is a great way to spend your afternoon or evening! I have spent winter in Lapland and various parts of Finland and have had the pleasure of visiting Rovaniemi twice and I am always planning another escape to the Arctic! They also have a kitchen and cafe on site offering up a variety of different dishes. Bus 14 also goes there. My guide was super knowledgeable and literally taught me everything I ever wanted to know about the northern lights. Opt for Merino Wool thermal top and leggings. If we miss anything you are curious about for a winter trip to Rovaniemi, let us know in the comments! I actually prefer watching them in autumn because the weather is milder. It will take you deep into the Arctic Circle, give you the chance to sleep in a glass igloo, and even have you meeting Santa himself. Next up we have another of our favourite winter activities in Lapland, and thats a Snowmobile Tour Book yours here. On my latest trip, I headed back for lunch and had their reindeer sandwich that came with pickles, lingonberries, and fries. >> Click here for ice floating rates and availability. Please note that this is a chain (but far better than any Starbucks I have ever had). 3. The 133rd Tournament of Roses Rose Parade kicks off on January 1, 2021, at 8 a.m., traveling 5.5 miles along Orange Grove Boulevard and Colorado Avenue in Pasadena. See tours >> Click here for the snow hotel tour rates and availability. It would appear the Santa business is doing very well indeed! All kinds of colours from green to purple, and even red dance around in the twilight sky. The place doubles as a science center and has its own cafe inside. The captivating design of the glass igloos allows guests a panoramic view of the night sky. Beyond Arctic offer short 2-4 hour photoshoots for couples and families. ): I have stayed at a variety of places in Rovaniemi despite only two trips. Lapland travel guide - 10 things to do in Finland in winter If youre heading to Rovaniemi and not into active tourism, then a visit to the Arctic Snow Hotel is a must! In Belton, Texas, part of the Killeen-Temple metropolitan area, the Central Texas State Fair runs through Labor Day weekend. You can also check out many other accommodation options here. Although, if you want to make the very most of the winter activities, youll want to visit Lapland from December to March. You cant visit Lapland without visiting Santa, and the great thing is, it doesnt even have to be Christmas time. Experience the Arctic atmosphere and truly northern products. However, there are certain unique features or attractions, that might appeal to you more than others. Lapland FAQ - Frequently Asked Questions | Visit Finnish Lapland This tour is wheelchair accessible. Aurora Borealis Source: flickr Aurora Borealis For about 200 nights a year from the end of August to April you have the chance to see one of the great natural spectacles. Choose between Swedish or Finnish short breaks to Lapland in December. ), 20 Incredible Day Trips from Chicago (Within 3 Hours! Cafe & Bar 21 has delicious coffee but it was their waffles that left me impressed! Admiring the Northern Lights photo by Photo by Oren Cohen on Scopio. Planning a magical trip to Lapland in Winter? It is around 12-15 Euros one-way but there is a group taxi from Hotel Santa Claus each Friday that is only 3/pp). Written 30 December 2022. Each cabin allows you to watch the Northern Lights from the comfort of your bed. You will also get to have a local lunch in Kukkolaforsen fishing village (in Sweden). Lapland winters produce plenty of snowfall. When I was visiting, there was a climate change exhibition by famous photographers from around the globe. The slopes are suited to all skill levels, from beginners to daredevils. Of course, a significant part of the local culture is the cuisine. No matter the temperature, your special suit will keep you warm. December is a great time to visit Lapland. Youll find popular car rental companies in the main villages of Lapland. Its the best time of year in Lapland to see the Northern lights, while Lapland winter activities include reindeer safaris, husky sledding, snowmobiling, and skiing. An outdoors ice bath in Lapland you can swim in after doing a sauna. Just be prepared! Around since 2016, a tour of the brewery costs 20/pp, and the tours run regularly every Friday evening from 1600-1800. You can discover the breathtaking Smi homeland, join in the colourful festivals and activities of the locals, and discover their history. Go for a headlamp and youll be sorted. These months are the darkest, coldest, and snowiest. Most family homes have them, and they are considered a necessity for a happy and healthy life. Seeing the magical Aurora Borealis is a bucket list event, and Lapland is one of the best places to do so. The most renowned Mexican restaurant in Finland is actually in Rovaniemi and is owned by the geniuses behind Gustav and Cafe & Bar 21 (both mentioned in this guide)! The train and bus service the main areas around the region. The easiest way to access Finnish Lapland is to fly to Helsinki, spend a day or two, and from there, fly to Lapland. Rovaniemi is an exceptional place to view the northern lights but many people dont realize that the best months to see them are not during the darkest winter days. To help you prepare, you can check out our complete Lapland winter packing list here. and I have nothing but raving reviews of it! Nevertheless, crawling through the wilderness and enjoying the scenery from the panorama cabin was an enjoyable experience. Another winter activity fit for animal lovers, horse riding tours allow a peaceful and romantic journey through the rugged wilderness of Lapland. So if youre planning a trip to Lapland in March, Im confident you wont be disappointed. During winter there are very few daylight hours in Lapland. Not only that, their impressive fleet of vehicles which includes Porsche, Maserati, and Ferrari, is guaranteed to make any sports car fanatic drool. Click here to book a sauna and an ice bath session! 13 AWESOME Things To Do In Lapland In Winter - Greta's Travels One of the more unique ways to discover the beautiful Lappish landscapes is to travel by snow tank. Even if youre a total beginner, this Lapland winter activity is fun for all the family. 1. You want to be able to remove them depending on the activity youre performing. our guide to reindeer safaris in Lapland. Winter thrill-seekers can have a go at snowboarding, skiing, or dog sledding. It might not be the coldest month of the year (that honor goes to January and February), but it is the darkest. We spent 3-hours driving through the wilderness, and it felt like freedom. I know, because Ive seen it with my own eyes. 21 EPIC Things to do in Lapland (Finland) in Winter 2023 Korouoma, a 1-million-year-old valley, has about 14 frozen waterfalls that you can see on this winter tour. This tour is slightly more money than the Lappish BBQ ones (but is the same I paid in other places in Iceland and Norway, etc) but the value is SO worth it. You see, Lapland is both romantic and adventurous in equal measure, so its guaranteed fun for all the family. The sun might only come out from 10:00 to 14:00. In fact, Finlands longest ski slopes are found in Ylls. The body-shocking process is said to relieve pain, improve moods, and strengthen the immune system. Required fields are marked *. I have actually been to this forest during the autumn months (ruska as the Finns call it) but havent had a chance to explore it during the winter. Unless you live close to the Arctic Circle this could be a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity. Required fields are marked *. It is a place where all of your Christmas and winter dreams can come true (as lame as that sounds! Elevated on stilts overlooking the Lappish wilderness, the luxury cabin accommodation is designed to allow a nest-like view. Rovaniemi is getting easier and easier to reach! Christmas in Lapland: How to Plan the Best Trip The two main airports in Norwegian Lapland are Alta and Kirkenes. One place that I truly love in the heart of Rovaniemi is the Coffee House. This tour operates in all weather conditions so bundle up! >> Click here to book your northern lights tour. You will have a chance to take to the snowy hiking trails before reaching the frozen waterfalls. TUI will continue to run its Lapland day trips, with a festive packed visit to Kittilia, with trips running from 1st December -2nd January, including a flight from Newcastle on Saturday . This is where you find the Lapland Chamber Orchestra and the Rovaniemi Art Museum, among many other things! While the glass igloos originated at Kakslauttanen Resort, you can find them now all over Lapland. We visited Lapland in March, and the enchanting winter vibes were still in full swing. The following airlines currently fly to Rovaniemi Airport: EasyJet, Ryanair, Air France, Eurowings, Finnair, Norwegian, Turkish Airlines, and KLM. But thanks to this extraordinary Ice Hotel in Swedish Lapland, I think Im going to have to visit twice. Exploring Santa Claus Village in Rovaniemi, Finland. Traveling to Finnish Lapland at Christmas tops a lot of bucket lists. Get discounts & updates in our monthly newsletter, Get discounts & updates in our monthly newsletter, 2022 Our Taste For Life Blog All Rights Reserved. Youll get a real sense of the true Lapland culture by visiting Inari. Imagine days discovering glorious winter landscapes and fascinating local culture. However, there are some details to Swedish Lapland that set it apart from its neighbours. Cool things to do in Rovaniemi - Visit Rovaniemi Our snow tank tour took place at night. But dont worry, youll be well protected from the cold. If youre interested, the eight seasons are as follows: So as you can see, Winter in Lapland can span six months of the year. To be honest, not much! But, you get to do it in a private lavvu tent not huddled around a fire with multiple tour groups at the same stop. The small village of Inari is the centre of Smi culture. Let's explore the best things to do in Lapland: 1. This will help ensure you have the best choice over activities, places to stay and, of course, availability and prices. Be sure to bring your passport! 47 Things to Do in Los Angeles in December (2022) - Free Tours by Foot Snow is on the ground in Rovaniemi for around half the year! Alongside iconic luxury accommodations such as glass igloos and cosy log cabins, the resort offers several exciting excursions. I will end the guide with some of my quick tips for the trip! 13 Magical Things to do in Finnish Lapland in Winter - Snap Happy Spoonie The smoke is then let out and the remaining heat keeps the sauna hot. Youll sleep in a warm sleeping bag and enjoy breakfast over an open fire in the morning. Me during my Lapland trip enjoying a sunrise / sunset sky at noon and -13C. Finland winters produce ample snowfall and Lapland supplies endless kilometres of well-groomed skiing paths. It's pretty likely that this post contains affiliate links. Go hiking at Pallas-Yllstunturi National Park View this post on Instagram A post shared by Suvi Mhnen | Kasvuyrittj Lapista (@eratonttu) The Pallas-Yllstunturi National Park is a national park in Finland and holds the distinction of being the third-largest in the entire country. Click here to book a husky dog sledding excursion! If you are looking for a unique winter activity in Rovaniemi, you can join a tour to the Bothnian Sea in Lapland to go out on an icebreaker ship! Posted on Last updated: December 12, 2020. Gliding through the magical winter landscapes is an incredible way to spend the day. National parks make up most of Finnish Lapland, protecting some of the last remaining wilderness in Europe. THE 15 BEST Things to Do in Kittil - Tripadvisor This is a truly magical wintertime experience! Considerably smaller than its neighbours above, but no less beautiful and compelling. A vast region in fact that covers northern Sweden, Finland, Norway and even part of Russias Kola Peninsula. There are two floors filled with exhibitions about their way of life, from the past to the present. Top 23 Things To Do In Lapland, Finland - Updated 2023 Alcoholic drinks are not included. As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases. This is said to increase your blood flow and raise your endorphin levels. Taqueria Yuca specializes in homemade tacos and some other Mexican dishes, and the (insanely delicious) creations are the masterpieces of Fernando and Fernanda, a chef and bartender from Tulum. Here's a summary of our experiences and our suggestions for planning an itinerary for Lapland Day 1 - Fly into Oulu Since the invention of snowmobiles and cars, not so much; however, cross-country skiing is still a national sport in Finland. Skiing and snowboarding are popular Finnish winter activities, and theres no better place to enjoy them than in Lapland. I hope you have a magical trip to this unforgettable location. Check out their website for info. Is Lapland a real place? The easiest way to access Swedish Lapland is to fly to Stockholm, spend a day or two there, and then fly to Lapland. Once at the snow village we took in the husky ride, reindeer ride, snowmobile to visit the big man, visit the ice hot. Even in winter, travelling around Lapland is easy. Although these events are unlikely, they do happen, and having travel insurance gives you that extra piece of mind that you are protected. Click here to check out train connections to Rovaniemi. For example, on a winter getaway to Lapland, you have the chance to go dog sledding and stay in a hotel made of snow and ice. They use high-quality ingredients and the dishes were absolutely hearty and delicious. A campfire lunch is included. It is more than just a hostel (I had a rather luxurious private room there! It was all fantastic! To put its size into perspective, if Lapland were a country, it would be in the top 20 biggest countries in Europe, which is pretty staggering. While pretty much every hotel in the area will have its own sauna, if youre looking for something that is more of an experience, try out this snow sauna experience that includes dinner! Discover events happening in Lapland in December and activities that are perfect for a December trip to Lapland. Fortunately, the Santa Claus village makes it feel kind of Christmas-y all year round, even during the middle of the summer! Are you looking for the best things to do in Rovaniemi in winter? But with all of that out of the way, lets get to it. The main airports in Lapland with scheduled daily flights are Rovaniemi, Kittil, Kuusamo, and Ivalo. Be sure to bring swimwear, warm clothing, and a change of clothing! Explore Finnish Lapland, Europe's last . On the opposite end of the spectrum, a Reindeer Safari is an almost tranquilising experience. A large stove pumps hot smoke into the air until a certain temperature is reached. My friends trying ice floating for the first time in Lapland. While Lapland at Christmas is a great idea, it does come with inflated hotel and travel prices. You will take a 5-10 minute walk through the forest to the lake, where you will learn a new skill! I visited the Korundi House of Culture on my first trip to Rovaniemi and enjoyed a tour of the art and creative space in the city. The guide will also inform you about how Finns fish during the winter months and teach you how to drill the hole yourself. I visited Rovaniemi during autumn and I actually saw snow on October 8 one year! >> Click here to check Santa Claus Village rates and availability. The Levi Ice Gallery is an ice hotel that has it all: ice sculpture, a restaurant, an ice bar, and wood-heated saunas. Click here to book a northern lights wilderness tour! Also, there is an Espresso House right across the square that has great coffee and cinnamon buns too (it is also a chain). Can you think of anything more relaxing than hoping in a hot sauna during a cold winter day? Unlike some of the sunnier Europe winter destinations, the temperatures drop down low as autumn turns to winter. The official home of Santa Clause is the Santa Claus Village in Rovaniemi. And, of course, if youre visiting Lapland for Christmas, its your chance to get up close and personal with the big man himself. Finally, you might find the indigenous Sami culture of Lapland to be most prevalent here. Just because the sun does come up doesnt mean it is all that light. As an Airbnb Associate, we earn when you book through our links. Privacy Policy | Sitemap | Stories, Armenia travel blog | Virginia travel blog | Hawaii travel blog, Learning how to photograph the lights on this tour, Outside of the lavvu (you get to go there! Don't worry! ), 25 Best Things to Do in Ubud, Bali (for First-Timers! But, it doesnt really work like that. On my first trip, I had a reindeer but now the menu contains different options. Find what to do today, this weekend, or in January. */, 2023 Meganstarr.com is powered by Targeting, Meganstarr.com is a participant in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program, an affiliate advertising program designed to provide a means for sites to earn advertising fees by advertising and linking to Amazon. It is also a place where you can send letters from Santa to young kids (or adults!) This adventure picks up people in Rovaniemi and transports them out to the Finnish forests where they will have a chance to hop on the snowmobiles after a safety briefing and get dressed in insulated gear. Weather What to expect when you visit Lapland, Finland, Enjoy ultimate relaxation while Ice Floating, Try a fun Finnish combo: Sauna and Ice Bath, Traverse the landscape by Cross Country Skiing, Speed down the slopes Skiing and Snowboarding. Welcome to Northern Finland! Its made with high-quality material that covers your whole body and keeps you dry. While we wore layers upon layers of thermal clothes and winter gear, he had a thin shirt on bearing his chest and arms. Lapland Hotels SnowVillage. Peer out over the natural landscape and the endless arctic sky from a totally different perspective. They are open every day except Sundays and offer a popular brunch on Saturdays (it will be busy!). Saying that it is hard to find tasty Mexican food in Europe is an understatement, but I can say that it is definitely not impossible and Yuca is one of the best places I have had the stuff outside of mega-cities in Europe. - The good pictures of me, by Harri Lindfors. Known for its snowy landscapes, endless arctic activities, and clusters of small villages, this region is an enchanting holiday destination. Things to Do in Lapland Popular things to do Winter Sports Night Tours Ski & Snowboard Areas 4WD Tours Nature and Wildlife Tours National Parks Fishing Charters Safaris Hiking Tours Half-day Tours Photography Tours City Tours Private Day Trips Zoo Tickets Sporting Events Airport & Hotel Transfers Walking Tours Top Picks Luxury & Special Occasions So for now, I will leave you with a short statement from their website: Icehotel is a hotel and an art exhibition with ever-changing art made out of ice and snow. I booked through their Facebook page but you can also book through their website. 9 Reasons Why You Should Visit Lapland in Autumn (Not Winter!) The sourdough was exceptional, and the butter was to die for. Feel your heart pump on a thrilling ride over frozen lakes and through the tall, snow-covered trees. ), Hanging with the man at Santa Claus Village. How on earth will you choose? Thanks! Swing by Mrs. Claus Christmas Cottage to sing Christmas carols. . And for good reason. Before diving into what to do in Rovaniemi in winter, I will quickly cover some useful information about the weather, snowfall, and more. Packing for your winter holiday in Lapland is the final step in the planning process, but its not one that should be taken lightly. December is the peak of the winter season i n Lapland and is one of the best times to visit. After, you can wine and dine at a Lappish-style restaurant before heading back to your accommodation. Whether you prefer sipping cocoa slopeside or trekking across untouched terrain, there's something for everyone in Finnish Lapland. The bikes have wide tires that can easily travel across the snowy terrain, so you dont have to worry about slipping. 22 Things to Do in Rovaniemi in Winter (+ Lapland Tips) . It was a dream trip of mine come true and Im sure it will be the same for you. 20 Northern Lights from $164.69 per adult Private transfer from Levi to Rovaniemi 1 Transportation Services from $442.82 per group (up to 3) Cocooning in the HaliPuu forest: The ultimate Arctic hammock relaxation 3 Coffee & Tea Tours from $114.43 per adult If you become sick or injured, those medical bills can really add up. Another one of my favorite places to eat in Rovaniemi is Cafe & Bar 21 (which just so happens to have the same owners as Gustav and Yuca, so it is no surprise that I was impressed by this place)! 8 Awesome Things to Do in Yll s, Lapland, in Winter. Exclusive to Finnish Lapland, the 3-hour cruise transports passengers through the frozen water of the Bothnian Sea. One of the coolest things to do in Ylls in winter is to visit the Snow Village. THE 10 BEST Things to Do in Lapland - 2023 (with Photos) - Tripadvisor Thanks! Your email address will not be published. Review of: Icekarting Levi. Don't blame us if you're tempted to book a flight to Lapland as soon as you finish looking at these photos. Pay a visit and meet the man himself! Me and my group in Lapland, all cozy in our winter gear during our snowshoe hike. We've also put this itinerary together to offer you flexible transport options. The pizza is baked in a wood-fired oven and they even offer takeaway if you want to stay in your hotel and eat! Just 250km north of the Arctic Circle and so many things to do Saariselka has become a major winter destination for Christmassy experiences, dogsled safaris, ice-fishing, skiing and northern lights sighting. However, it can dip as low as -30C. Once youve visited, you can peruse the gift shop or head to other places around the complex. Here we've put together some of your possible adventures and unforgettable experiences. It is a great romantic thing to do in Rovaniemi for couples! Things to Do When Visiting Saariselka, Finnish Lapland Fun Things to Do in Saariselka (With Kids Too!) The lunch will be pork sausage (vegans and vegetarians can request an alternative in advance), marshmallows, and blueberry tea. But, with the aid of an insulated suit, this popular Lapland activity might just be the neatest thing you do on your whole trip. 11. The easiest way to access Norwegian Lapland is to fly to Oslo, spend a day or two there, and before flying to Lapland. If youre heading to Finland, check out our Finland series to help plan your trip! A snowmobile is a bit like a jet ski on snow. Glide over the thick snow as you enjoy the fresh open air. ). will definetly visit again in December 2023 :) Read more. The innovative design allows guests to watch the Northern lights from the comfort of their beds. Thanks! Disclosure:Some of the links in this post are affiliate links. Imagine sitting on a frozen lake, surrounded by serene views while waiting patiently for something to happen. Of course, one of the most popular bucket list experiences when visiting Lapland in Winter is seeing the Northern Lights. I had their roasted salmon and ginger lemon risotto (which is still on the menu!) The Icehotel is an ever-changing work of art that gets rebuilt each and every year. Beautiful landscapes you can see in Lapland in winter. In all honestly, its a grey area amongst animal rights activists. Best Things to Do in December in Los Angeles - USA TODAY 10Best Pretty much all of the activities listed above are offered in the different regions, so theres no need to travel loads. Seeing the northern lights is never guaranteed, but the weather conditions in Lapland are about as perfect as you could wish for. Thermal clothing is great for regulating your body temperature. Sometimes they dont show for days or weeks at a time. Were Charlotte & Natalie, a British lesbian couple with a passion for travel and adventure. You can even organise to stay in the home of a Sami family and learn about their modern way of life.

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